Many businesses today are facing problems having to do with efficiency, time management, development of employees and performance. Believe it or not, a thoughtful focus on delegation, when properly and continuously employed, will positively impact all of these major organizational needs.

First, good practice of delegation allows managers and teams to maximize time and talent, resulting in talent leverage. The best leverage results when responsibility resides at a level closest to the point of performance.

Second, when tasks are appropriately delegated, learning takes place. Certainly telling and showing are integral, but the hands on experience of actually performing usually provides the best learning experience.

Third, delegation with clear guidelines promotes good customer/client service. As leaders and managers we should always try to delegate as much responsibility and authority to those people who &8220;touch&8221; the client as possible.

uAssess the current workload and your confidence level prior entrusting a task. Low confidence does not mean no delegation, but simply a measure of the delegator&8217;s level of involvement.

uClearly define the level of performance expected. Make sure this includes the manner in which you wish to remain informed and the frequency of status reporting and the level of support and guidance available.

uSeek input as appropriate. Depending upon the level of experience, ask for input on such things as timelines, support that will be needed, and any other important variables.

uProvide feedback during and after the project. The frequency of feedback will depend on the length of time and the complexity of the task, but never underestimate the value of demonstrating sincere care and appreciation of the effort being made.

uSpread the opportunity. It is so easy to fall into the trap of using the same people over and over. We do it because we trust them, however, we run the risk of burning them out, demoralizing other associates, and ultimately losing the very asset we need so much.

The art of delegation is one of the most powerful tools in the arsenal of every organization; understand it, practice it, and improve performance